Diocese of South Carolina admitted to the Anglican Church in North America

Wheaton, I.L. – June 27, 2017 – The clergy and lay leaders of the Provincial Council of the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) began singing the doxology, “Praise God from whom all blessings flow” once the council unanimously approved the reception of the Diocese of South Carolina into the larger body. The Council meeting, held June 27, preceded the larger Provincial Assembly, both of which are being held at Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL. 

The Rev. Canon Phil Ashey, of the ACNA, who introduced the vote, said the Diocese far exceeded canonical requirements for reception.

The Most Rev. Mouneer Anis, Presiding Bishop of Jerusalem and the Middle East and chairman of the Global South Primates Steering Committee which, provided the Diocese of South Carolina with provisional primatial oversight within the Anglican Communion after the Diocese of South Carolina voted to leave the Episcopal Church, said, “It was great news to hear that the Diocese of South Carolina decided to join the Anglican Church in North America. I’m sure this will bring joy to the heart of God and will be a blessing to the whole continent of North America.”

Bishop Mark Lawrence, the XIV Bishop of South Carolina, in his remarks, likened the diocese’s reception as a homecoming. “The soldiers in WWII fought for victory, sweated for victory, some bled for victory and some died for victory but they all dreamed of home – that moment when they would return to their home. “ 

He quoted Robert Frost who said, “Home is that place where when you come there, they have to let you in.”

“Well you didn’t have to let us in but you have and it feels like a homecoming for the Diocese of South Carolina and for me as her bishop.” 

Over 1400 clergy, lay delegates and guests are attending the three-day Assembly whose theme is “Mission on our Doorstep.” Archbishop Foley Beach is hosting the gathering and plenary speakers include Ed Stetzer and Louie Giglio.